Character Building, The Linux Streaming Server Way

Domestic media servers represent a modern solution to the issue of accessing media content from different locations. Just as the cloud has revolutionized our ability to consume third-party content, servers enable us to share digital content throughout our homes. From photos and videos to TV channels and internet radio, a well-configured server allows people to access different files in different rooms from the same server at the same time.

Build Your Own: Linux Makes It Possible

Although it’s possible to purchase a pre-built Linux streaming server, building your own system represents a more cost-effective and flexible alternative. The Linux operating system is an ideal platform for a media server since its stability minimizes file conflicts while acting as a blank canvas for customization. A Linux streaming server will enable people to abolish the plethora of black boxes that clutter 21st century homes; DVD players, radios, set top boxes and hi-fis can all be replaced with a Linux media server and a tablet or laptop.

An optimized home server should be energy efficient and quiet, capable of running cool in a confined space yet powerful enough to cope with multiple users at the same time. It requires internet access to stream and download on-demand content, with enough security to repel malware and prevent file corruption. A stable operating system will eliminate the need to regularly reboot or update the software, while automatic file backups protect against unexpected hardware failures or catastrophes.

Creating A Server Setup From Scratch

Creating this from scratch may sound like a Herculean task, but it should be relatively straightforward for anyone with a basic understanding of computer assembly. The cornerstone of any Linux streaming server is the hardware inside the tower, which should have multiple cooling fans for dependable 24/7 operation. A motherboard with multiple ports can host a powerful processor and plentiful RAM, while hard drive storage should be measured in terabytes and ideally be SATA III to channel bandwidth of up to 600MB/s. Always choose high-end components to future-proof the server, although a self-assembled setup can be upgraded retrospectively if components become outdated or overloaded.

The physical process of installing components in a Linux streaming server is best left to instruction manuals and online guides. Once the tower has been assembled, with cables tied together to improve airflow, a version of Linux should be installed onto the new hard drive. There are several leading distributions of Linux (known as distros), and it’s up to individuals to decide which distro they favor — Ubuntu is a particularly popular option. Attach a monitor, keyboard and mouse to the server (they can be disconnected later, as they won’t be needed) and install the distro from a CD. Choose a complex password that would be difficult for anyone to crack, and select a fixed IP address so peripherals will automatically connect to it. This server will become a constant presence on every PC, phone or phablet in the house.

Software To Manage The Linux Streaming Server

It’s also necessary to install a piece of software to manage and maintain the Linux streaming server once it’s up and running. For instance, Ubuntu users may decide to use Putty, whose text-only ‘command prompt’ interface is reminiscent of early PCs. This software will establish administrative privileges over the server’s activities and behavior, as well as allowing new user accounts to be created or governed. It’ll also be necessary to install other software depending on how the server will be utilized — one program for recording and storing TV programs, a second for playing MP3/WMA files, a third for BitTorrent streaming, etc. The final step is to download or transfer movies, music and media files — which will now be universally accessible from every internet-enabled device or peripheral around the home.

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